Xiaomi Ends Android 16 Support for 31 Popular Devices

Flagship and mid-range models to receive HyperOS 3 but no further Android version upgrades.

Xiaomi has announced a significant shift in its software update policy, confirming that 31 of its devices will not be upgraded to Android 16. These models will instead conclude their major OS update journey with Android 15, though they are slated to receive the new HyperOS 3 interface.

Flagship Exits with Android 15

The decision impacts several high-profile Xiaomi devices, including the entire Xiaomi 12 series. Owners of the Xiaomi 12, 12 Pro, 12S, 12S Pro, 12S Ultra, 12T, and 12T Pro will not see Android 16. The Xiaomi Civi 3 and MIX FOLD 2 also face the same update ceiling.

The discontinuation of major updates for devices like the Xiaomi 12S Ultra and 12T has drawn particular criticism. These were top-tier devices offering advanced features during their release, leading to user disappointment about their support lifespan.

POCO Lineup Faces Update Cutoff

The popular POCO brand also sees several models ending their Android version update cycle with Android 15. This includes the POCO F5 and F5 Pro, which were released with expectations of longer support. The POCO F5, for instance, is set to conclude its main updates after just two years, a duration considered below average in today’s competitive smartphone market.

Other POCO models no longer eligible for Android 16 include the POCO C65, POCO M6 Pro, and POCO X6 Neo.

Redmi Devices Max Out at Android 15

A substantial number of Redmi phones will also stop receiving new Android versions at Android 15, even as they transition to HyperOS 3. This includes basic series models like the Redmi 12, 12 5G, 13C, 13C 5G, and 13R.

The Redmi K series is also affected, with the K50 Ultra and K60 ceasing major OS updates. Additionally, a wide array of Redmi Note models from the 12 and 13 series will not receive Android 16. This encompasses the Redmi Note 12 4G, Note 12 NFC 4G, Note 12R, Note 12S, Note 12T Pro, Note 12 Turbo, Note 13 4G, Note 13 4G NFC, Note 13 5G, and Note 13R Pro.

HyperOS 3 Promises Refreshed Experience

While these devices miss out on Android 16, they will benefit from HyperOS 3. Leaked details suggest this update will bring a significant user interface overhaul, potentially drawing inspiration from iOS for a sleeker design and improved aesthetics. New uniform icons are anticipated.

HyperOS 3 is expected to introduce dynamic notifications, allowing information to be displayed more contextually on the lock screen or within system elements. Xiaomi also pledges enhanced security features with hardware-level data protection and more transparent app permission controls.

For multimedia enthusiasts, the update promises improvements in sound quality and support for the latest audio codecs. The integration of Auracast technology will enable simultaneous wireless audio sharing to multiple headphones. Photographers can look forward to new features like hybrid automatic exposure and an improved night mode.

Update Rollout Timeline

While an exact release date for HyperOS 3 is not yet public, initial reports indicate that the first compatible phones could receive the update starting in August 2025. Subsequent rollout to other eligible models is planned to occur over the following months.

Crucially, these devices will not be left entirely unsupported. Even those no longer receiving Android version upgrades will continue to benefit from essential security patches and bug fixes, ensuring ongoing stability and protection.